Wrestling for Cheer Fund Set for Saturday

HPW to help Cheer Fund / Photo: Jerry Wilson

A local professional wrestling promotion is celebrating 15 years in Columbus and giving back to the community it calls home.

Hoosier Pro Wrestling is presenting its 15th Anniversary show on Saturday on the Family & Arts Building at the Bartholomew County Fairgrounds. As it has done for several years, the promotion is dedicating the evening to the Columbus Fireman's Cheer Fund.

The Cheer Fund is all about helping to make a nice Christmas for needy children in the area. The organization, housed in the Doug Otto Center in Columbus, accepts cash, new toys and clothing throughout the year. Then, in the days leading up to Christmas, firefighters and area volunteers wrap these gifts and deliver them to kids who otherwise, may not receive much for the holiday.

"It's about giving back and helping needy kids," HPW Promoter Jerry Wilson said. "It's always a great night. HPW fans are the best wrestling fans and very generous," he added. Wilson says he always wants to pack the building, but especially on this night. "It's a big night for the wrestlers too," he continued. Wilson says his performers always enjoy a big crowd and adds that many of them contribute to the Cheer Fund, in addition to competing.

Those attending Saturday night's show are encouraged to bring new, or very gently used, toys and clothing. These items, along with cash donations, will be accepted at the building entrance. Near the end of the evening, Wilson will make a presentation of the donations collected to firefighters in attendance.

Hoosier Pro Wrestling's 15th Annual Show is Saturday night. Bell time is 7:45 p.m. Tickets are $15. Children age 4 and younger get in free.